“This week I was in my fourth official season picture at Verona. They have been wonderful years and we pictured a positive moment, but now it’s up to us to keep that going as long as possible,” said the Coach.

“On more than one occasion we’ve been compared to OsvaldoBagnoli’s team in terms of character, attitude and organisation. I can’t help but be pleased and as soon as I arrived here I said I wanted to open an era, just like he did. I feel like I’ve been here for a lifetime, as the city has adopted me.

“At this moment Verona would be qualified for the Europa League, which means we’ve deserved this position. It is right that the fans enjoy it and have enthusiasm, but I can assure you the team has its feet planted firmly on the ground.

“First of all we achieve our objective of safety, then we can have some fun. You can’t make a mistake in Serie A and anything can happen. It’s too important for Verona to remain in Serie A this season.”

Gomez Taleb and EzequielCirigliano are out of action, while Juan Iturbe remains a doubt following a muscular problem.